by Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer & Community Outreach Manager
Jacques Randolet is our Volunteer of the Month for October for his work as a Transportation Driver. He has been driving for us since 2009! Jacques is known as the “French Guy or Dude” depending on who you talk to. Jacques met his wife in France. They came to Midland in 1990. Jacques is quite the storyteller and his accent makes listening to him even more interesting! He started driving for Senior Services after he was asked by former Transportation Manager Keith Everett. Jacques recalls that he was visiting a former transportation driver volunteer who had become ill. They attended the same Church. While visiting, Keith stopped by as well and the rest is history. Jacques wanted to know how many miles he had driven in the past 13 years? Unfortunately, we don’t keep track of miles however, we do track hours. Jacques has volunteered over 1,647 hours! Jacques says, “I like contact with people. You can learn a lot from a person even in just a 10-20 minute car ride.” Trish Brown, Transportation Manager can’t say enough good things about Jacques, “He volunteers without hesitation. He is always willing to accommodate the client’s needs.” Clients have commented to Trish that Jacques is always so kind and caring. He is a great conversationalist about all subjects. He mentioned that he takes different routes so clients can have a change of scenery. Trish confirmed, “Changing routes as Jacques does for different scenery is so caring and considerate to our clients.”
Our trained volunteer drivers provide friendly “arm to lean on” service throughout Midland County. Whether it’s a trip to the doctor’s office or a ride to the grocery store, we’ll get you to those places and more. Drivers use agency vehicles and must have a good driving record plus a kind and courteous attitude toward our clients. Our biggest need is for drivers who can handle wheelchairs in accessible vans. If you are in need of any of the programs and services that Senior Services offers, call (989) 633-3700. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, call Allison at (989) 633-3741.
Jacques reports that he “loves people and likes to be funny.” In his spare time he enjoys cooking and cleaning. He claims he was a “Mr. Mom.” He ran a daycare in Madison, Wisconsin prior to moving to Midland. He has worked for Northwood University and the City of Midland. He has 3 daughters and 1 grandchild plus a Husky-Lab mix named Phoebe. He also volunteers at his Church, St. John’s Episcopal and the S.A.M.S. Food Pantry.
Trish Brown says, “Jacques always has a smile on his face.” Thank you Jacques for putting a smile on so many clients’ faces over the years. Your joviality is contagious!
We Need Volunteers!
Senior Services is in urgent need of Meals on Wheels drivers. We are looking for folks that are available Mon-Fri from 10 am-1 pm to deliver meals. Mileage is reimbursed and a FREE lunch is provided to you for your services! A driver’s license and reliable transportation are required.
We are also in great need of Friendly Visitors, Shopping volunteers, Team Handyman. We are also seeking Transportation drivers, and Activity & Dining Centers/Seasons Entertainers (Do you play an instrument? Magic? Puppets?).
If you choose to volunteer with us, you will be embarking on a rewarding adventure that will have a huge impact on the older adults of Midland County! And you will join one of the finest groups of people we know – our experienced, trusted and valued volunteers!
Visit us at SeniorServicesMidland.org/volunteer to fill out a contact form or call Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer and Community Outreach Manager, at 989-633-3741.
